2012 Annual Report

Message from the Director

Since 1994, Worthington Libraries has been part of a resource-sharing consortium with Columbus Metropolitan Library and Southwest Public Libraries. In 2012, leaders from these library systems made the historic decision to join the Central Library Consortium.

This partnership combines 11 library systems serving 1.4 million residents across six counties with nearly 1.2 million unique titles. Other libraries in the consortium include: Alexandria, Fairfield County, Grandview Heights, Marysville, Pickaway County, Pickerington, Plain City and Wagnalls Memorial.

Along with the 2013 launch of a new electronic catalog and patron database, this partnership will give us the ability to better manage our resources, connect with patrons and reduce costs. It's exciting stuff!

Another important initiative of 2012 was the development of our next strategic plan. The process was arduous, but also illuminating, as community conversation played an integral role in the plan's development.

Our 2013-2015 Strategic Plan was developed with input from hundreds of residents who participated in focus groups, a web survey and one-on-one discussions. They answered questions about service, hours and what they wanted from the library in the future. The plan they helped create offers a fresh take on library service, and we're excited to begin its implementation.

As we move farther into the digital age, books are just one of a myriad of services provided by the Library. We are also community centers where people connect, learn about new technology and engage in discussion. Libraries encourage people to have fun and explore new ideas in an accepting and open environment.